2018 Lincoln MKZ Pros vs Cons

The brand-new 2018 Lincoln MKZ is a spunky little sedan that is fun to drive when it is equipped with the right options. For the last few model years, Lincoln has been making improvements in order to elbow its way past the competition. While the MKZ does not quite reach the top of the list for its segment, it is definitely worthy of consideration.

What's New for 2018?

There have been no noteworthy changes made to the 2018 Lincoln MKZ. Almost everything carries over from the outgoing 2017 model.

Ten Reasons You May Like the 2018 Lincoln MKZ – The Pros

1. The Turbocharged V6 Engine Option

There are three different engine options to choose from. The spunkiest of them is the turbocharged 3.0-L V6 engine, which comes equipped with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive comes standard and garners 250 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque. When equipped with optional AWD, however, you get a whopping 400 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque, which is more than sufficient to get the 2018 Lincoln MKZ up-to-speed on the highway.

2. The Hybrid Model

If fuel efficiency is important to you, give the hybrid model a test drive. It's electric motor and 2.0-L 4-cylinder engine work to generate 188 hp, which is pretty good for a hybrid in this class. Also, it should be noted that Lincoln does not charge more for the vehicle just because it is a hybrid, which makes this vehicle well worth the cost.

3. Numerous Standard Features

The 2018 Lincoln MKZ is loaded with standard features. Just a few of these items include rear parking sensors, a rearview camera, Bluetooth, heated mirrors, adaptive xenon headlights, two USB ports, and an 8-inch touchscreen display. Essentially, you will be getting your money's worth with all the features that come standard.

4. Affordability

If you are shopping on a tight budget but really want a luxury vehicle, the MKZ is definitely one of the most affordable options, especially if you are thinking about getting a hybrid variant. With other automakers, you will likely be paying more and getting less in terms of features, and you will definitely have to shell out more money if you want a hybrid.

5. Excellent Braking Abilities

Braking on the MKZ feels natural and secure. When put to the test, the vehicle can make a panic stop in 113 feet, which is shorter than the average stopping distance for this segment. Overall, the brakes are quite engaging and responsive.

6. Handles Sharp Turns Well

While you can't take the vehicle on narrow mountainous paths, the MKZ handles sharp city turns with ease. For a large sedan, the MKZ does exceptionally well with how it handles corners.

7. Comfy Enough For a Road Trip

The seats are somewhat firm, but there is a massaging function that eases lumbar pain. Also, despite its stiffness, the 2018 Lincoln MKZ gets minimal shocks, as most everything you encounter on the road gets absorbed. It is undoubtedly a road trip-worthy vehicle.

8. A Quiet Ride

There isn't a whole lot of noise that seeps into the cabin. The standard 2.0-L engine makes a gentle humming sound while idling, but that's about all it does. It barely issues a whine while accelerating to get up to highway speeds. The cabin also seems well-insulated from wind and road noise, so you won't have to worry about cranking your music up just to hear it.

9. User-Friendly Controls

While a lot of entry-level luxury vehicles have confusing setups, the controls on the MKZ are quite user-friendly. The entire dash is composed in a common-sense style, making it easy for the driver to access all of the physical knobs and buttons. Even the infotainment system isn't a chore to figure out.

10. Best-In-Class Cargo Space

If it's cargo space you want, it's cargo space you shall have. The 2018 Lincoln MKZ has best-in-class cargo space with its generous 15.4 cubic feet. With the seats folded down, it is extremely simple to load and tote bulky items around in the back.

Reasons You May Not Like the 2018 Lincoln MKZ – The Cons

1. Sluggish Acceleration On the Base Engine

The biggest drawback to driving the 2018 Lincoln MKZ is the base engine. This 2.0-L inline-4 turbocharged engine manages to get 245 hp and 275 lb-ft of torque, but the acceleration feels sluggish when you take the vehicle out on the highway. On the AWD, the base engine can only get from 0 to 60 mph in 7.6 seconds, which is about a second slower than average for this class.

2. Interior Doesn't Look High-Quality

While the interior isn't exactly cheap-looking, it isn't as refined as what you find on some of Lincoln's competitors. There are some pieces that moan and groan, and a few pieces of trim don't seem to be lined up particularly well.

3. Lack of Cabin Space

The cargo space might be generous, but the cabin space is not. Those sitting in the rear will notice a lack of head and leg space, and even those who are seated up front might feel slightly cramped.

4. Subpar Steering

Steering on the MKZ isn't awful, but it lacks some finesse. It feels too light for most drivers to enjoy. Even Sport mode doesn't do much to improve the steering's lightness. Overall, the driver won't get good feedback on how the tires are gripping the road.

How it Stacks up to the Competition:

2018 Lincoln MKZ vs. 2018 Audi A4

The 2018 Audi A4 has one of the best-designed cabins in this class and is loaded with high-tech gadgets. Also, it has a spacious rear seat that taller adults can easily fit into. On the downside, the A4 struggles with steering much like the MKZ and also hesitates to accelerate.

2018 Lincoln MKZ vs. 2018 Genesis G80

Having debuted last year, the Genesis G80 is part of a stand-alone brand that is making quite the splash. While its ride quality has yet to be perfected, the G80 offers a lot of power and comfort. Also, it prices below many of its competitors.

Conclusion

The 2018 Lincoln MKZ has a few issues, none of which are major dealbreakers for most buyers. The hybrid variant really is the way to go if you're looking for fuel efficiency without compromising on power. The 3.0-L engine is also a safe bet for anyone who wants something with a massive amount of get-up-and-go power.